Epic Indochina Odyssey: Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos 20 days

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, where your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.rnrnStandard check-in time isu00a02:00 PM. Early check-in is available upon request and may incur an additional fee.rnrn rnrnThe remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore Hanoi at your own pace.rnrnOptional Experience:u00a0Hanoi Street Food Walking Touru00a0u2013 From US $29 per personrnrn

After breakfast, meet your guide at 8:00 AM and begin exploring Hanoiu2019s most iconic historical landmarks by car or motorbike, based on your preference.rnrnVisit the Temple of Literature, Vietnamu2019s first university and a lasting symbol of Confucian heritage.rnrnDay 2 Explore The Temple Of Literature And Discover Vietnamu2019s First UniversityrnrnContinue to Ba Dinh Square and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you will learn about Vietnamu2019s modern history and the Declaration of Independence.rnrnNote: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is viewed from the outside, and closed on Mondays and Fridays and undergoes annual maintenance from June through August.rnrnStroll along scenic Thanh Nien Road and visit Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda, Hanoiu2019s oldest Buddhist temple, beautifully situated on the shores of West Lake.rnrnDay 2 Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoiu2019s Oldest Buddhist TemplernrnEnjoy lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant.rnrnReturn to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Explore Hanoiu2019s vibrant nightlife, local cafes, or bustling Old Quarter at your own pace.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

After breakfast, depart Hanoi between 8:00 and 8:30 AM for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a comfortable journey with a short stop along the way.rnrnDay 3 A Birdsu2019 Eye View Of Halong BayrnrnUpon arrival, complete check-in at the cruise lounge and transfer by speedboat to your cruise. Receive a warm welcome from the crew and settle into your cabin.rnrnEnjoy lunch onboard while cruising through the bayu2019s breathtaking landscape of limestone karsts and emerald waters.rnrnAfternoonrnrnDiscover the natural beauty of Halong Bay through activities offered by your cruise. Depending on the itinerary, enjoy kayaking, cave exploration, or hiking to scenic viewpoints.rnrnDay 3 Kayaking In The Crystal Water In Halong BayrnrnReturn to the ship and relax. Join a Vietnamese cooking demonstration or unwind on the sundeck with panoramic views of the bay.rnrnEveningrnrnSavor a deluxe dinner onboard featuring local and international cuisine.rnrnAfter dinner, enjoy onboard activities such as squid fishing, board games, movie screenings, or relaxing at the bar.rnrnNOTE: The Halong Bay itinerary may vary depending on each cruise.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerrnAccommodation: Overnight on Cruise

Start your day with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply enjoy the peaceful morning views of the bay. A light breakfast is served onboard.rnrnContinue exploring Halong Bay with activities based on your cruise itinerary, which may include visiting a fishing village or enjoying time on the water.rnrnDay 4 Explore Some Magnificent Caves In Halong BayrnrnReturn to the cruise for a final brunch while sailing back toward the harbor. Check out before disembarking and transferring to the pier by speedboat.rnrnAfternoon rnrnTravel back to Hanoi and transfer directly to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.rnrnUpon arrival in Da Nang, meet your driver and transfer to Hoi An. Check in your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, BrunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Discover the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture.rnrnBegin at Hoi An Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, regional specialties, and everyday goods, offering a glimpse into daily life.rnrnContinue to the Fujian Assembly Hall, renowned for its ornate architecture and long-standing cultural traditions.rnrnDay 5 Explore The Heritage Of Fujian Assembly HallrnrnVisit the historic Phung Hung Ancient House and Tan Ky Ancient House, two beautifully preserved merchant homes that reflect Hoi Anu2019s trading heritage.rnrnExplore the Museum of Folk Culture to learn about traditional crafts, customs, and local life. Then enjoy a cultural performance at the Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House.rnrnStop at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi Anu2019s most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the townu2019s multicultural past.rnrnDay 5 Take Pictures With The Historical Japanese Covered BridgernrnBefore returning to your hotel, browse local handicraft shops, art galleries, and charming alleyways that showcase the townu2019s timeless atmosphere.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Wander through the ancient town, relax at a local cafu00e9, browse boutique shops, or simply soak in the townu2019s laid-back atmosphere.rnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Hoi Anrn

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.rnrnUpon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel. Check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.rnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Start your day with breakfast before meeting your guide at 8:00 AM in the hotel lobby for a half-day city tour.rnrnBegin at the Reunification Palace, former presidential residence of South Vietnam and an iconic symbol of modern history.rnrnDay 8 Visit A Historical Site The Reunification PalacernrnContinue to the War Remnants Museum, showcasing powerful exhibits on Vietnamu2019s wartime history.rnrnVisit the elegant Saigon Central Post Office and the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral, two of the cityu2019s most famous French colonial landmarks.rnrnStop at the peaceful Jade Emperor Pagoda, a richly decorated temple reflecting traditional Chinese-Vietnamese spiritual culture.rnrnDay 8 Visit The Jade Emperor Pagoda And Admire Its Spiritual AtmospherernrnEnd the tour at a local market, where you can browse souvenirs and experience daily local trading life before returning to your hotel around 12:30 PM. rnrnNote: Notre Dame Cathedral is currently under renovation. rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and depart with your guide for Cai Be, a journey of around two hours.rnrnVisit Cai Be dry market, where you can observe local trading life and experience the rhythm of the Mekong Delta.rnrnContinue by wooden boat through scenic canals, stopping at local family workshops to see traditional production of coconut candy, rice paper, pop rice, and regional specialties. Learn about local craftsmanship and sample handmade products.rnrnDay 9 Enjoy A Boat Ride Through The Scenic Waterways Of The Mekong DeltarnrnBoard a sampan and cruise toward Tan Phong Island, where youu2019ll enjoy tropical fruits and experience Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional Southern Vietnamese music performance. rnrnAfternoonrnrnEnjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Mekong Delta specialties, such as fried elephant ear fish.rnrnDay 9 Elephant Ear Fish A Popular Dish In Mekong DeltarnrnAfter lunch, continue by road to Can Tho. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Can Tho

Begin early with a journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta. Visit Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant floating market in the region.rnrnWatch local boats gather on the river, trading fresh produce, tropical fruits, and daily essentials directly on the water.rnrnDay 10 Visit Cai Rang Floating Market And Experience Life On The RiverrnrnContinue to nearby fruit orchards, where you can walk through tropical gardens, meet local farmers, and enjoy freshly harvested seasonal fruit.rnrnAfternoonrnrnFor nature lovers, join an optional Tra Su Cajuput Forest Discovery Tour (4 hours, from US $30 per person; US $60 per solo traveler).rnrnTravel by sampan through peaceful canals shaded by dense cajuput forest. Experience the calm ecosystem, birdlife, and untouched natural scenery.rnrnDay 10 Explore Tra Su Cajuput Forest And Discover Its Rich EcosystemrnrnStop at an observation tower for panoramic views over the mangrove forest before continuing your journey.rnrnLater, travel by road to Chau Doc, a quiet riverside town near the Cambodian border, and check in at your hotel.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Chau Doc

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and departing Chau Doc.rnrnTransfer to the boat station and board a speedboat for your journey along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, Cambodiau2019s capital city. Enjoy scenic river views during the crossing.rnrnUpon arrival at the Sisowath Tourist Dock, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free at leisure.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penhrn

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide at 8:00 AM for a half-day exploration of Phnom Penh.rnrnBegin at the Independence Monument, a landmark built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodiau2019s independence and national pride.rnrnContinue to the Royal Palace, a stunning example of Khmer architecture and the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Visit the nearby Silver Pagoda, home to sacred Buddha statues crafted from gold, silver, diamonds, and emeralds.rnrnDay 12 Explore The Royal Palace And Admire Cambodiau2019s Royal ArchitecturernrnExplore the National Museum, showcasing one of the worldu2019s finest collections of Khmer art and archaeological treasures dating from the 4th to 13th centuries.rnrnEnd the morning at Wat Phnom, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city and a peaceful introduction to local spiritual traditions.rnrnDay 12 Visit Wat Phnom, The Spiritual Heart Of Phnom PenhrnrnAfter the tour, enjoy lunch at your leisure and return to the hotel for check-out before 12:00 PM.rnrnAfternoonrnrnTransfer to the bus station for your journey to Siem Reap.rnrnUpon arrival at Borei Seang Nam Station, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure and prepare for your upcoming visit to Angkor.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

At 8:00 AM, meet your guide after breakfast and begin a full-day exploration of the Angkor Temple Complex.rnrnStart at Ta Prohm Temple, where ancient ruins are dramatically embraced by massive tree roots and jungle vines.rnrnDay 13 Visit Ta Prohm, Where Ancient Ruins Intertwine With Giant Tree RootsrnrnContinue to Angkor Thom, entering through the South Gate featuring statues depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. Explore Bayon Temple, known for its 200+ smiling stone faces, along with the Phimeanakas, Royal Enclosure, Elephants Terrace, and Terrace of the Leper King.rnrnEnjoy lunch at a local restaurant.rnrnAfternoonrnrnVisit the iconic Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Learn about its symbolic design representing Mount Meru and the surrounding cosmic ocean.rnrnDay 13 Explore Angkor Wat, The Crown Jewel Of Khmer ArchitecturernrnLater, climb Phnom Bakheng to enjoy a panoramic sunset over the Angkor plains. rnrnEvening rnrnEnd your Angkor journey with a traditional Khmer dinner accompanied by a traditional dance performance, showcasing Cambodiau2019s classical culture through music and storytelling. rnrnMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerrnAccommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Siem Reap to relax or explore at your own pace. This is a great opportunity to discover hidden gems, local cafu00e9s, or explore more of the countryside around Angkor.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang, Laos.rnrnUpon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore the peaceful charm of the city at your own pace.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

After breakfast, begin your cultural journey at the Royal Palace Museum, a former royal residence built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.rnrnContinue with a scenic cruise along the Mekong River, enjoying peaceful countryside views en route to the Pak Ou Caves. Explore two sacred limestone caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues placed by generations of pilgrims.rnrnDay 16 Pak Ou Caves, Considered An Important Religious Site Of Locals In The ArearnrnOn the return journey, stop at Ban Xanghai Village, known for traditional rice wine production, where you can learn about local craftsmanship and sample regional specialties.rnrnAfternoonrnrnReturn to Luang Prabang and visit Wat Sene and the iconic Wat Xiengthong, one of Laosu2019 most beautiful temples, known for its elegant architecture and intricate mosaics.rnrnDay 16 Wat Xiengthon, The Classical Laotian ArchitecturernrnContinue to Heuan Chan Heritage House, a restored 19th-century residence showcasing traditional Lao lifestyle, culture, and ceremonial practices. Relax with a cup of Lao tea or coffee in the garden setting.rnrnLater, visit Wat Prabath for a peaceful sunset view over the city. End your day at the Luang Prabang Night Market, where local artisans sell handmade textiles and crafts.rnrnStay overnight in Luang Prabang.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Begin your day with the traditional morning alms-giving ceremony, one of Laosu2019 most sacred rituals, where saffron-robed monks collect offerings in a quiet procession through the streets of Luang Prabang.rnrnAfterward, visit the nearby morning market to experience local daily life and browse fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles.rnrnReturn to your hotel for breakfast.rnrnClimb Phousi Hill via 329 steps to reach the summit, where panoramic views reveal Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, and the Nam Khan River.rnOptional stop at the nearby Bear Rescue Center, home to rescued Asiatic black bears.rnrnOn the return journey, visit the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center, where local artisans preserve traditional Lao weaving techniques. Learn about textile culture and enjoy a guided audio experience.rnrnReturn to your hotel in the late afternoon.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

At around 9:00 AM, depart Luang Prabang for a scenic drive to a peaceful riverside village. En route, stop at a local market to select fresh ingredients that will be used during your homestay experience.rnrnArrive at the village and cross the river by local ferry or traditional boat. Meet your host family and settle into your homestay. Enjoy a traditional Lao lunch prepared with the ingredients you helped choose.rnrnAfternoonrnrnSpend the afternoon experiencing authentic village life. Visit a local school, meet artisans, and observe traditional weaving techniques. You may also have the opportunity to order a custom-made traditional Lao garment.rnrnRelax with time by the river or refresh at your homestay.rnrnIn the evening, join your host family in preparing a traditional Lao dinner or relax with a local drink while sharing stories.rnrnEnjoy a warm family-style dinner, followed by a casual evening of games and cultural exchange with your hosts.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerrnAccommodation: Muang Soune Homestay

Start early between 5:00-6:00 AM with a traditional monk alms-giving ceremony, preparing sticky rice as an offering at a local temple.rnAfter breakfast, join your host family for a hands-on fishing experience on the Ou River, learning traditional Lao techniques passed down through generations.rnrnContinue with a scenic walk through rice fields and nearby organic gardens, gaining insight into rural farming life. Enjoy a farewell lunch with your host family before some free time to explore the village or shop for local handmade products.rnrnAfternoonrnrnCross the river by local boat and begin your return journey to Luang Prabang. Arrive at your hotel around 5:00 PM and enjoy the evening at leisure.rnrnMeals: Breakfast, LunchrnAccommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Enjoy your final breakfast in Luang Prabang and take time to relax or unwind at leisure before check-out.rnrnAfter check-out, meet your driver for a transfer to the airport for your departure flight.rnrnMeals: BreakfastrnAccommodation: NA